MONTPELIER, Vt.– – VSECU has announced the launch of We Care 2, a member-directed giving program through which $23,000 in donations are distributed to Vermont charities. Through Dec. 1, VSECU is accepting applications from Vermont-based organizations that make a positive and direct impact on issues of food, shelter, heat, financial education, or the environment.
Qualifying applications will be presented on the VSECU website and social media platforms, where community members will have an opportunity to comment, offer testimony, and endorse the work of their favorite organization.
“We Care 2 was designed to get VSECU members further engaged in our community giving program. We encourage members to introduce the program to qualifying organizations that support causes they believe in and engage in the voting process,” said Simeon Chapin, director of community & social development at VSECU. “Creating an active conversation around each organization also helps guide the Giving Committee at VSECU to better understand the personal impact of each organization’s work.”
The Giving Committee will select five finalists, which will be placed on the 2018 Annual Elections ballot. VSECU members will vote for the organization they would like to fund. We Care 2 funds will be distributed based on the percentage of votes received so that every vote cast by a credit union member will have equal financial value.
“Our mission at VSECU is to improve the quality of life for all Vermonters,” said Chapin. “The We Care 2 program enables members to gather support for causes they care about and bring the community together to make an impact on Vermonters’ lives.”
Past recipients include COVER Home Repair, Umbrella Inc., Vermont Center for Independent Living, and Groundworks Collaborative.